Drone Tours in Rio's Favela: Economic Boost or Exploitation?

0:00This is Corey with Seattle Mariners News Today, powered by the Daily News Now. Subscribe for daily updates on your team. Taurus are flocking to Rio de Janeiro's Rosina Favella for viral drone videos shot from rooftops. Visitors pay about $30 to pose with stunning aerial views of the hillside community, often waiting up to two hours in line. The trend, run by local company Nafavella Toreismo, has exploded amid record visitor numbers to Rio. The company's founder, Renan Montero, grew up in Rosina and started safe guided tours to highlight the area's positive side. They include walks through alleys, local artist visits, and copper wearer shows, with an app tracking guides locations. Police operations trigger cancellations to keep everyone safe. Locals have mixed feelings. Some residents love the income boost, with rooftop owners charging for access and employees calling it a fever of opportunity. Critics, including violence watch argue it risks turning the vibrant neighborhood into an exotic backdrop that romanticizes poverty

1:05and crime. The company has trained 300 local guides and 10 drone pilots, giving young people like 19-year-old Pedro Lucas' better job prospects. In February alone, they hosted 41,000 visitors across Rosina and nearby Vitigal. Meanwhile, Rio's tourism is booming, with nearly 290,000 international arrivals in January. While influencers and couples snap up the shots, the debate continues on balancing economic gains with respectful portrayal of Avella life. The Daily News Now is presented by our sponsor, LinkedIn the Description. Some travel miles to find peace. I just climb into bed and listen, S-O-L-I, AssoliPillow.com.